# playbuoy — The motion of the ocean > NOAA buoy wave data analysis and forecasting for ocean activities. (iPhone/iPad app by Matthew Iannucci.) - Source: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/playbuoy/id1662001103 (this page in markdown: same URL + `.md`) - Developer: [Matthew Iannucci](https://appshunter.io/developer/945847569) - Category: Weather, Sports - Price: Free - Rating: 5.00/5 from 15 App Store ratings · 1 written reviews indexed - Age rating: 4+ - Requires: iOS 18.5 · 21 MB - Languages: American English - Released: 2023-05-29 - Data updated: 2026-08-06 - Monetization: free - User reviews in markdown: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/playbuoy/id1662001103/reviews.md ## What is playbuoy? playbuoy brings unparalleled insight into NOAA buoy wave readings. Detailed Swell Observations and Forecast. playbuoy analyzes NOAA buoy data with a customized algorithm to extract detailed swell information from raw buoy observations and wave models. This gives the most accurate breakdown of where swell is headed and when. With 16 days of forecasted swell data, you will always be informed of what to expect for whatever ocean activities you love. While other apps will show two swell components observed or forecasted, playbuoy will show up to five. Beautiful and Meaningful plots. Easily compare the the current buoy readings with model forecasts to prepare and plan for how the forecasts may not be matching up with what is actually happening in the ocean. No other service can visualize the full directional wave spectra for both buoy observations and wave models at once. Explore the latest buoy observations from all over the US and beyond to watch current weather events or plan for future activities. Or select your favorite buoys to keep the wave information you need the most a tap away. Widgets and watch complications keep the latest data a glance away. Never miss a swell again. Share plots and swell data with a custom share function to loop others in and make group plans for surfing, fishing, boating, or any other ocean activity you love. ## Key features - Detailed swell observations and forecasts - Custom algorithm for accurate swell breakdown - 16-day swell forecast data - Up to five swell components displayed - Visual comparison of buoy readings and model forecasts - Full directional wave spectra visualization - Widgets and watch complications ## Recent user reviews (1 of 1) All indexed reviews: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/playbuoy/id1662001103/reviews.md ### 5/5 — Nooch Does it again *2024-04-22* Great tool for tech savvy surfers who do their homework. ## Frequently asked questions about playbuoy ### What is playbuoy? playbuoy analyzes NOAA buoy data with a custom algorithm to provide detailed swell observations and forecasts. It helps users plan ocean activities by showing up to five swell components and comparing real-time readings with model forecasts. ### How accurate is playbuoy's swell forecast? playbuoy uses a customized algorithm to extract detailed swell information from raw buoy observations and wave models, aiming for the most accurate breakdown of where swell is headed and when. It provides 16 days of forecasted swell data. ### Can I see current ocean conditions with playbuoy? Yes, you can explore the latest buoy observations from all over the US and beyond to watch current weather events. The app also allows you to select favorite buoys to keep essential wave information readily accessible. ### Does playbuoy offer visualizations of wave data? Absolutely. playbuoy offers beautiful and meaningful plots, including the ability to visualize the full directional wave spectra for both buoy observations and wave models simultaneously, which no other service can do. ### How does playbuoy compare to other weather apps? Unlike other apps that may show only two swell components, playbuoy displays up to five, offering a more comprehensive view. Its unique visualization of directional wave spectra for both observations and models also sets it apart. ### Is playbuoy available on Apple Watch? Yes, playbuoy is supported on the Apple Watch, iPhone, and iPad. It features widgets and watch complications to keep the latest data at a glance, ensuring you never miss a swell. ### Can I share playbuoy data with friends? Yes, playbuoy includes a custom share function that allows you to share plots and swell data. This makes it easy to loop others in and coordinate group plans for surfing, fishing, boating, or other ocean activities. ### Does playbuoy have ads? No, playbuoy does not contain advertisements. The app is completely free to use without any ad interruptions. ## Version history (last 5 releases) ### 1.20.0 — 2026-03-30 Adds support for GEFS Wave Ensemble data to supported buoy stations ### 1.19.0 — 2025-12-11 Support for Playbuoy's new NowCast wave model, coming to a buoy near you! ### 1.18.0 — 2025-10-20 UI improvements for ios 26 ### 1.17.1 — 2025-10-14 Bug fixes for explore view ### 1.17.0 — 2025-09-26 Updates for iOS 26 ## Apps similar to playbuoy | App | Rating | Price | Category | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | [Marine Weather Forecast Pro](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/marine-weather-forecast-pro/id1191010451) | 4.7 (16,119) | Free | Weather | | [Windfinder: Wind & Weather map](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/windfinder-wind-and-weather-map/id336829635) | 4.8 (60,517) | Free | Weather | | [Buoycast: NOAA Buoys & Weather](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/buoycast-noaa-buoys-and-weather/id1202655934) | 4.6 (13,609) | Free | Weather | | [BuoyPro: NOAA Buoy Weather](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/buoypro-noaa-buoy-weather/id1641960260) | 4.6 (42) | Free | Weather | | [Buoy Finder NOAA NDBC](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/buoy-finder-noaa-ndbc/id710433569) | 4.3 (194) | Free | Weather | | [A-Frame: Surf Forecast](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/a-frame-surf-forecast/id6741837362) | 4.6 (11) | Free | Weather | ## More apps by Matthew Iannucci - [HopeWaves](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/hopewaves/id945847570) All apps by Matthew Iannucci: https://appshunter.io/developer/945847569 --- *Data collected daily from the US App Store and indexed by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/). User reviews are verbatim App Store reviews. Ratings, prices and chart positions refresh continuously; this snapshot is from 2026-08-06.*